Clearwater tech firm launches investment arm

Clearwater-based KnowBe4 Inc. (NASDAQ: KNBE), a provider of security awareness training and a popular simulated phishing platform, has launched KnowBe4 Ventures, a venture-capital investment arm that will focus on early-stage startups that aim to enhance the human layer of cybersecurity — raising awareness about ransomware, CEO fraud and other social engineering tactics.

According to a news release, KnowBe4 Ventures will partner with a pair of other VC firms, Elephant and Ten Eleven Ventures, on investments. Both specialize in funding for cybersecurity startups, which KnowBe4 says is inadequate.